Republican state Sen. Don Benton wins recount

VANCOUVER, Wash. — State Sen. Don Benton has won his re-election bid by just 74 votes in a race that affects the balance of power in the Washington Legislature.

A hand recount by the Clark County Elections Department shows the Vancouver Republican defeated Democratic challenger Tim Probst in the 17th District.

The Columbian reported another hand recount will be conducted Thursday in the close state House race in the 17th District between Democrat Monica Stonier and Republican Julie Olson. Stonier had a 139-vote lead after last month’s election. Probst vacated that seat to challenge Benton.

Benton’s victory leaves Democrats with a 26-23 Senate majority, but two Democrats have indicated they’ll work with the GOP. The House is solidly Democratic.